I see a dark sail on the horizon
Set under a black cloud that hides the sun.
Bring me my broadsword and clear understanding.
Bring me my cross of gold as a talisman.
Get up to the roundhouse on the cliff-top standing.
Take women and children and bed them down.

Bring me my broadsword and clear understanding.
Bring me my cross of gold as a talisman.
Bless with a hard heart those who surround me.
Bless the women and children who firm our hands.
Put our backs to the north wind. Hold fast by the river.
Sweet memories to drive us on for the motherland.

I see a dark sail on the horizon
Set under a black cloud that hides the sun.
So, bring me my broadsword and clear understanding.
Bring me my cross of gold as a talisman.
So bring me my broadsword
And a cross of gold as a talisman.


Lyrics submitted by idiotic

Broadsword Lyrics as written by Ian Anderson

Lyrics © BMG Rights Management

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Broadsword song meanings
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  • +3
    General Comment

    The song is about Brittain being invaded by Northern Europe. The first verse is from Brttain's perspective, seeing the invaders coming, hiding the women and children, and preparing for battle. The second verse is from the invaders' perspective, discussing strategies for the upcoming battles. The final verse is from both perspectives, as both the Brittish and the invaders have the same objective: survive.

    Assuming this invasion takes place around the sixth century, it could be the Vikings (Danes) invading Brittain, as Christianity had reached Northern Europe by that time.

    Ian instills the irony that both the invaders and the defending Brittish prepare for battle in the same way (grab a sword and a cross).

    Krendall2006on January 12, 2007   Link

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